"Don't forget 'Cars to Compare,'" we're often told when doing these stories, but sometimes that list at the bottom of our Driving Impressions stories is tough to create. Here, we compare Acura's new to crossover SUVs because they are among the sportiest of that genre. Gran Turismo is like the German big cousin of the ZDX. And wagons are the coolest around.

Strange bunch, but that's where the ZDX's style and specs take us. Built on the platform, it shares that model's wheelbase and track. Outside, the ZDX is 1.7 in. longer, the same width and 5.4 in. shorter in height.

What's fun is the sheet metal contained in those dimensions — it's nicely dramatic, crisp and edgy, with the hips of a running back and a nose-into-the-defensive-line stance.

The ZDX interior follows the theme of the exterior, trimmed in leather and featuring excellent gauges and a black monolith center stack that lights up only when used.

In here is also where you find the ZDX's major compromise. makes no bones about this being a 2-person vehicle with plenty of carrying space — including hiding places — with the back seats for occasional use. In fact, there's sufficient room back there for six footers, although entry and exit is a bit tight.

With the MDX platform, the ZDX gets the familiar 300-bhp V-6 and Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive. New to the driveline is a 6-speed automatic.

In the 4424-lb. ZDX, this powertrain yields performance that fits this Acura's image, accompanied by a nice exhaust note.

Designed, developed and built in North America, the ZDX will start in the mid-$40,000 range.